As the sources of work and enterprise dwindled over the past years due to the logging ban imposed by the government, the tribal communities in the area have continued to struggle with the daily sustenance by practicing traditional slash-and-burn farming, gathering of non-timber forest products for food such as fruits, nuts and root crops, and hunting of wildlife.

Unfortunately, this is not enough to support their daily needs. As a result, tribal members have no choice but to revert back to illegal logging activities to support themselves and their families.

A highly religious and spirited individual, Datu Balvino Andaya organized the BAMATA Tribal Council, Inc. and sought the assistance of Tao Corporation president, Mr. Julio Sy, Jr. to combat forest degradation, improve the educational development of the BAMATA individuals and provide fair trade opportunities for the BAMATA community in Agusan del Sur.   

Currently, the vision of creating an educated and self-reliant BAMATA community is slowing becoming a reality. TAOSPuso Foundation committed in providing the much needed basic financial assistance and logistical support for the para-teachers in the primary, secondary and tertiary levels. In the near future, the BAMATA Tribal Council aims to develop a School for Indigenous Knowledge and Training (SIKAT) that will document, preserve and teach BAMATA cultural heritage treasures in the form of song, dance, alternative medicine, art and other traditional practices within the community and to individuals, groups and organizations outside the community.

To support the cultural livelihood of BAMATA community, TAOSPuso Foundation and Tao Corporation organized the BAMATA Development Foundation to initially focus on the technical training and development of Organic Upland Rice for. This project will focus on determining the best suited upland organic rice variety that is culturally sensitive and economically sustainable for the BAMATA farmers. Guided by Fair Trade principles, TAO Corporation shall assist BAMATA in product design and development, productivity improvement, and market trade development. 

At the end of the day, TAO Corporation, through TAOSPuso Foundation and BAMATA Development Foundation, and BAMATA Tribal Council communities will continuously discover, develop and build new opportunities from renewable, sustainable and protected forest-based resources rich in biodiversity. There will always be a promise of hope and equal opportunity for everyone.